6 Tips for Buying a Second-hand Car
6 Tips for Buying a Second-hand Car
Posted on April 14, 2018
In this modern era of advancement and technology, the car sales are hitting an all-time high. The second-hand car market has become very important to the automotive industry as car owners these days opt to change cars every few years. As it is not possible for them to buy a new car every time pre-owned carscome to their rescue. However, buying a second-hand car is more complicated and perplexing than a new one. A used car’s reliability depends on several things, unlike a brand new car in which you expect to have everything running perfectly. Second-hand car buying need not be as fraught with consternation and panic as you may think. Knowing where and how to buy a used car as well as which cars to buy can relieve customers’ stress. Here are a few tips to help buyers find a perfect second-hand car.
- Know your budget
What is your monthly budget? How will you manage the running costs like fuel, maintenance, insurance, plus the interest on any finance used for the purchase? Answers to all these questions must be found and worked on before beginning your search for a second-hand car.
- Research, research, and research
Carry out a thorough research before buying your used car. Be clear about the needs you want to satisfy by buying your vehicle and choose accordingly.
- Buy from the best
There are a number of fine car dealers in Toronto that have a “pre-owned” sales program where second-hand vehicles are offered on sale. Choose the dealers who are trustworthy and reliable. Their prices may be higher but such cars are checked and assured to deliver years of useful service to its next owner.
- Examine the exteriors and interiors
Used cars are like snowflakes, no two are ever alike; so scrutinize each car properly. The engine must be thoroughly inspected by a mechanic. Carefully inspect for dents, scratches and fresh undercoating masking recent repairs. These signs will give you a clear idea of the condition of the vehicle you are going to buy. Check for cracks, water leaks, rust or fill. Through inspection of the condition of exhaust components must also be done.
Additionally, interior components such as lights, mirrors, seatbelts radio, air conditioner vents, and windows must also be carefully checked so as not to regret the purchase. Make sure the inner components including Air Conditioning and music system are working efficiently.
- Take a test drive
Taking the vehicle for a test drive will reveal a lot of details which would have gone unnoticed during an external inspection. Test drive your car on different types of roads, check for full- throttle acceleration and most importantly check for brakes. The importance of brakes cannot be neglected. Moreover, look out for a shaky steering, faulty braking system while test driving. If any issues arise, you can promptly bring it to notice of the dealer during price negotiation.
- Making an offer
If you decide to buy, make an offer to the dealer. Write down all your conditions and negotiate the price. Ask for warranty which states that the seller will take the car back if any major problems arise with the engine or other parts of the car. Perform the formalities asked by the seller when the deal is finalized.